On Monday, DEM holds fishing & hunting workshop

Will cover proposed rules for hunting and fresh water fishing

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) will hold a public workshop next week on the proposed freshwater fishing and hunting regulations for the 2016-2017 season.

The new rules incorporate waterfowl into hunting guidelines, eliminating the need for a separate public hearing for waterfowl season.

WHERE: DEM Headquarters, 235 Promenade Street, Room 300, Providence, Rhode Island

WHEN: Monday, April 18, 2016 // 7:00 p.m.

This year, Governor Gina M. Raimondo established the Rhode Island Outdoor Recreation Council in an effort to promote growth of outdoor recreation in the state.

According to the Outdoor Industry Association, outdoor recreation in Rhode Island generates $2.4 billion in consumer spending and supports 24,000 jobs.

Fishing and hunting play an important role in connecting people with nature, attracting tourism, and supporting a treasured tradition for Rhode Island families.

According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, there are approximately 175,000 recreational anglers (age 16+) in Rhode Island. And recreational fishing contributes more than $130 million to the economy each year.

Consumer spending for hunting - including food, lodging, transportation, and equipment - adds another $18 million.

A public hearing on the draft regulations is scheduled for Tuesday, May 17 at 7 p.m. at the Warwick Police Department, 99 Veteran's Memorial Drive., Warwick.

Comments on the draft regulations may be submitted at the public hearing in May or submitted in writing to DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife, 277 Great Neck Road, West Kingston, RI 02892; written comments must be received no later than 12:00 p.m. on May 17.

Follow DEM on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) or Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM for more information on recreational opportunities in Rhode Island as well as other timely updates.